Wednesday, July 09, 2008

Blackjack Etiquette

There are a set of un-written rules that constitute the Blackjack etiquette. These have to do with the way in which one carries oneself at the Blackjack tables. Listed below are some appropriate behaviors at the Blackjack tables.

- In case you want to observe the game as a spectator, you should remember to watch the game from a distance and not disturb the other players.
- If you are unsure about the rules, play at a table that is for the beginners and learn the rules and then gravitate towards a table that is for established players.
- Make sure that you tip the dealer once in a while. And when you are tipping the dealer, leave the tip at the edge of the table close to the dealer so that the dealer can pick up the tip when you leave. Do not make it obvious to everyone that you are tipping the dealer. Also, make and additional bet and leave it near the dealer so as to be discreet.
- In case you want to join a table where a game is already on, do not disturb the game in between but, instead let the other players know that you would like to join the game with their permission.
- Make it a point to avoid drinking at the table. If you cannot resist having a peg or two, ensure that you do not spill the drinks at the table. Also, avoid getting drunk and keep the drink in your throat instead of in your head.
- Remember that it is ok to bet before the deal is done. Do not bet after the deal is done. This is frowned upon in all casinos.
- Do not touch your cards in a Blackjack face-up game. It is not allowed to touch the cards in this version of the game. In the Blackjack face-down game, it is allowed to touch the cards with one hand and not with both hands.
- Do not try to disturb other people’s concentration and instead focus on your game. If you would like to play the psychological game, keep it less obvious and low-key. It is forbidden to explicitly make noises and otherwise disturb the players’ concentration.
- Many of the casinos have tables spread out for the players to take a walk or a break from time to time. Thus, ensure that your breaks are spaced out in every sense of the word.
- If you spot an error from the dealer’s side, make sure that you do not make it obvious to the other players or to the dealer but let the dealer know in an un-obtrusive manner. Remember that to err is human and the dealer can be prone to make mistakes.
- Use your hand signals wisely and judiciously. This is the means to communicate with the dealer and thus you should be prepared to make the signals with clarity.
- Do not hold up the game for any reason. If you want to take a break, do so after the game is over and tell the dealer that you do not want the cards to be dealt and thus take a break.

Remember that good etiquette though may not make you win is nonetheless an important part of the game. It is for your sake and everybody’s sake that you should follow the same and ensure that the game goes on smoothly and without incident. Though you may not find these rules written down anywhere, it requires some kind of style and substance for you to carry off the game.

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